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Tuesday, May 8, 2012

USA - Safety tips in honor of Motorcycle and Motor Scooter Awareness Month

OFF THE WIRE

• Remember, a motorcycle is a vehicle with all of the rights and privileges of any other motor vehicle.
• Always allow a motorcyclist the full lane width — never try to share a lane.
• Perform a visual check for motorcycles by checking mirrors and blind spots before entering or exiting a lane of traffic, and at intersections.
• Always signal your intentions before changing lanes or merging with traffic.
• Don’t be fooled by a flashing turn signal on a motorcycle — motorcycle signals are often not self-canceling and riders sometimes forget to turn them off. Wait to be sure the motorcycle is going to turn before you proceed.
• Allow more following distance — three or four seconds — when behind a motorcycle so the motorcyclist has enough time to maneuver or stop in an emergency.
• Never tailgate. In dry conditions, motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars.
• Never drive while distracted.
To increase safety, motorcyclists should:
• Avoid riding in poor weather conditions;
• Wear brightly colored protective gear and a DOT-compliant helmet;
• Use turn signals for every turn or lane change, even if the rider thinks no one will see it;
• Combine hand signals and turn signals to draw more attention to themselves;
• Use reflective tape and stickers to increase conspicuity;
• Position themselves in the lane where they will be most visible to other drivers; and
• Never drive while impaired.
The release stated the overall message is: Help share in the responsibility of keeping all road users safe, by safely “sharing the road.”